In the city of San Luis Obispo, a truck accident can be caused by prescription or over-the-counter drug use. The results of such an accident can throw a victim and their family into despair. It is not unusual for this type of accident to cause a victim to suffer pain and emotional distress and to be impacted financially. If a truck driver is found to have been driving under the influence of prescription or over-the-counter drugs at the time of an accident, they may be held legally liable for the victim’s damages.
In the state of California, driving under the influence isn’t limited to the consumption of alcohol. A person may be charged with driving under the influence if they are discovered to have consumed illegal drugs, prescription medication, or over-the-counter medication. Any substance that alters a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely can be the basis of a charge of driving under the influence.
When a driver is under the influence of medication, they may feel dizzy, fatigued, or experience an inability to concentrate. There are many medications that can impair a person’s ability to concentrate and react to different situations appropriately. It is important to speak with a medical professional about any potential side effects of a medication and how that drug could impact the ability to drive. If a truck driver has no choice but to take a certain medication due to an illness or injury, they are urged to not drive until they know how that medication will affect them.